Refinery Maintenance Cycle
Several major US refiners have announced planned maintenance for late February. This reduction in capacity is expected to help clear the current winter-grade inventory overhang, supporting wholesale spreads into March.
2026 Retail Outlook
The EIA projects retail gasoline prices will average $2.92 for the full year 2026. This lower energy cost environment is acting as a tailwind for consumer spending, despite localized wholesale volatility.